SUGARCANE GROWERS REVIVE UNASGO IN A BID TO SAVE THEMSELVES FROM EXPLOITATION BY SUGAR MILLERS

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By Andama moses
In Masindi
www.mknewslink.com
Sugarcane farmers across Uganda under Uganda national sugarcane growers association (UNASGO) have resolved to revive the association and amend it’s constitution in bid to push it’s interest better.
This was during the associations general assembly held at Masindi Kolping Hotel on Thursday 13th of November 2025 which was attended by representatives of sugarcane farmers association from different parts of the country.
The association which was formed in 2005 with the aim of advocating for the interest of the sugarcane farmers in the country had collapsed due to funding challenges.
Robert Atugonza the chairperson Masindi sugarcane out-growers Limited ((MASGAL) called for unity among sugarcane growers across the country if they are to achieve their goals.
Atugonza who also doubles as representative of Bunyoro and Toro region at the newly formed sugar council noted that without strong national farmers’ association, the farmers representatives will not be effective in pushing for farmers interest.
Atugonza there for challenged sugarcane farmers to put aside sectarian differences and get united as farmers in order to achieve what their interest deserve and do better in sugar industry.
Aston Rwakajara chairperson Kyenjojo sugarcane growers association noted that the challenges that led to the formation of UNASGO still exist adding that it’s through a strong farmers association that these challenges can be addressed effectively and for farmers advantage .
David Byensi member of MASGAL noted that it is only unity that can save farmers from being exploited by sugar millers who he says have no mercy to the farmers unless they come out for their genuine cause
Speaking as chief guest, Masindi district Woman MP Dr. Florence Asiimwe Akiiki advised the sugarcane farmers in the country to get organised so that they can benefit from the recent sugar bill.
In the meeting, farmers amended the constitution to allow new out growers association from other parts of the country to join the Pioneer association.
They also amended the constitution to increase the number of UNASGO members from 7 to 17.
The meeting selected Julius Katerevu from Mukono as new board chairperson to spearhead efforts to revive the association. The New board is supposed to serve a term of four years.